Mc Lean, VA — Planting Guide for June
Free PDF, personalized for your town's frost dates & climate. Drop your email — we'll send the link.
Your June gardening checklist
June is a pivotal month for Fairfax County, Virginia gardens. Focus on these tasks first and you'll set up the rest of the season for success.
-
Time to start peppers, astilbe, and begonias inside
Give them 6–8 weeks indoors before the last frost and you'll transplant into warm soil with seedlings that are already leaping.
-
Start harvesting basil, carrots, and cucumber
Don't tug. Use scissors or pruners for clean cuts — torn stems invite disease.
A few tasks this June that'll pay off in July
- First harvests: basil, cucumber, and green beans
Mc Lean has a classic four-season growing climate (Zone 7b). The last spring frost typically lands around April 6 and the first fall frost arrives around November 3 — a 211-day frost-free season that's long enough for tomatoes, peppers, melons, and a full succession of cool-weather crops on either side. The trick is timing: start warm-season seedlings indoors 6–8 weeks before last frost, harden them off, and plant out the week after your local frost date is statistically safe.
Soils trend Silt Loam — the gold standard for vegetables. Add 2–3" of compost annually to maintain it and you'll outgrow most of your neighbors.
Drought pressure is moderate (15.9 weeks/year on average). Mulching and drip irrigation pay for themselves quickly.
🌡️ USDA Zone
7b (5°F to 10°F min)
❄️ Avg. Last Frost
April 6
🍂 Avg. First Frost
November 3
📅 Growing Season
211 days
🌧️ Climate
Humid 44.5" annual
💨 Wind
Moderate 7.7 mph avg
🥶 Frost Tier
Regular 0% frost-free years
🏜️ Drought
15.9 wk/yr trend stable
📍 ZIP Codes
6 ZIPs
Monthly Watering Calendar for Mc Lean
When you'll need to water your garden — based on average monthly rainfall vs. the ~1 inch/week most gardens need.
Why it matters: Over-watering kills more plants than under-watering. Mc Lean's 45" annual rainfall changes the gardening playbook — humid-region gardeners often water by the calendar when they should water by the soil moisture.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Avg Rainfall | Rainy Days | Extra Water Needed | Watering Effort |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 4.1 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Feb | 4.6 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Mar | 5.5 in | 9 days | — | Low |
| Apr | 4.1 in | 6 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| May | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Jun | 5 in | 11 days | — | Low |
| Jul | 5.9 in | 13 days | — | Low |
| Aug | 4.1 in | 11 days | 0.2 in | Low |
| Sep | 3.8 in | 7 days | 0.5 in | Low |
| Oct | 3.3 in | 7 days | 1 in | Moderate |
| Nov | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
| Dec | 4.4 in | 8 days | — | None |
Annual total: 53 in. Water needs vary by crop — tomatoes need ~1.2"/week while herbs like rosemary need only 0.3"/week. Check individual plant pages for crop-specific water budgets that factor in your county's rainfall and soil drainage.
Mc Lean Soil Profile
Soil Type
Silt Loam
Soil pH
5.4-6.5
Drainage
Well Drained
Frost Risk Probability
Based on 31 years of NOAA weather station data from 3 stations
Beginners: Plant frost-sensitive crops (tomatoes, peppers, squash) after the "Safe" date on the left. Harvest or cover them before the "Protect by" date on the right. Hardy crops (lettuce, peas, kale) can go in the yellow transition zones.
How to read this table: "Conservative" means you're safe from frost 9 out of 10 years — best for beginners and frost-sensitive crops. "Average year" is the typical date. "Aggressive" means only 1 in 10 years is that warm — experienced gardeners with frost protection can try these dates.
| Planting Strategy | Last Spring Frost | First Fall Frost | Frost-Free Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conservative (safest) | Apr 25 | Nov 23 | 212 days |
| Cautious | Apr 14 | Nov 10 | 210 days |
| Average year | Apr 6 | Nov 3 | 211 days |
| Optimistic | Mar 27 | Oct 25 | 212 days |
| Aggressive (risky) | Mar 19 | Oct 14 | 209 days |
Not very — frost dates can vary by ±36 days year-to-year. Use the "Conservative" row in the table below, and keep row covers handy for surprise late frosts.
Yes — growing seasons are getting longer here (about 3.7 days per decade). Spring is arriving earlier than it used to. Good news for gardeners.
Gardening Difficulty Score
Fairfax County presents some gardening challenges. Choose adapted varieties and plan around frost dates.
Local Gardening Help in Fairfax County
Free expert help is closer than you think. Your county's cooperative extension office connects you with trained gardeners, soil testing labs, and local programs — all specific to Fairfax County's climate and soil.
County Extension Office
Fairfax County Virginia Cooperative Extension (Virginia Tech / Virginia State) Extension Office
Phone: 540-231-5299
Visit Extension Office Website →
Extension offices are run by land-grant universities and funded by the USDA. Their advice is free, research-based, and tailored to your county's specific conditions.
Master Gardener Program
Free gardening help from trained volunteers
Master Gardeners are community volunteers who complete 40–60 hours of university horticultural training. They answer gardening questions, diagnose plant problems, and offer workshops — all free.
Many extension offices run a Master Gardener hotline where you can call or email with photos of plant problems for free diagnosis.
Soil Testing
Available through your extension office
Before amending your soil, get it tested. Your extension office offers soil testing (typically $10–$25) that tells you exact pH, nutrient levels, and amendment recommendations specific to what you want to grow.
Services Available in Fairfax County
Finding local nurseries & garden centers in Fairfax County
Why Buy Local
Local nurseries carry plants that are proven to grow in your area. Staff can give you advice specific to Fairfax County's soil and climate that big-box stores can't. Plants from local growers are typically hardier because they're already acclimated to your zone.
How to Find Them
Search for "nurseries near Fairfax County VA" or "garden center Fairfax County" on Google Maps. Also check with your extension office — they often maintain lists of reputable local nurseries and plant sales.
Community gardens & gardening groups
Community gardens are a great way to learn from experienced gardeners in your area, especially if you're limited on space. Search "community garden Fairfax County VA" or check your extension office and local parks department. Facebook groups like "Fairfax County Gardeners" or "Virginia Gardening" are also excellent for local advice and plant swaps.
What to Plant After Your Harvest
After your first crops finish, use the remaining frost-free days to grow a second round.
Show 6 more succession options
Sunlight & Day Length in Mc Lean
Monthly daylight hours and peak sun — critical for onion varieties, photoperiod-sensitive plants, and solar garden planning.
Quick context: Plants use day length as their seasonal clock. Some crops flower when days lengthen (most flowers), some when days shorten (chrysanthemums, soybeans). Mc Lean's curve is the timing layer beneath everything you grow.
Longest Day
14.7 hours
Summer solstice daylight
Shortest Day
9.3 hours
Winter solstice daylight
Peak Sun Hours
9.1 hr/day peak (summer)
Peak sun hours (green dashed line below) account for cloud cover — this is the usable direct sunlight your garden actually receives. Most vegetables need 6+ peak sun hours.
Onion tip: Your long summer days (14+ hours) support long-day onion varieties like Walla Walla, Sweet Spanish, and Ailsa Craig.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Daylight Hours | Peak Sun Hours | Day Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 9.6 hr | 4.7 hr | Short day |
| February | 10.5 hr | 5.2 hr | Short day |
| March | 11.7 hr | 6.7 hr | Short day |
| April | 13 hr | 7.6 hr | Neutral |
| May | 14.1 hr | 9.1 hr | Long day |
| June | 14.7 hr | 8.4 hr | Long day |
| July | 14.5 hr | 8.2 hr | Long day |
| August | 13.5 hr | 7.1 hr | Neutral |
| September | 12.2 hr | 7 hr | Neutral |
| October | 11 hr | 6.5 hr | Short day |
| November | 9.8 hr | 5.6 hr | Short day |
| December | 9.3 hr | 4.5 hr | Short day |
Peak sun hours factor in typical cloud cover — use these for solar panel and shade-planning calculations.
Soil Temperature & Composting in Mc Lean
Monthly soil temps tell you when to plant warm-season crops, and when your compost pile is actively working.
Why this matters: Most root crops germinate well at 50-60°F. Most fruit-bearing crops want 65-75°F. Mc Lean's monthly soil curve maps these windows to actual months.
Plant Warm Crops When
Soil reaches 60°F+
Soil warm enough from May through Oct.
Best Month to Compost
May
Microbial activity peaks when soil is warm.
Active Composting
8 months
Nearly year-round composting.
View detailed monthly data
| Month | Soil 4" Deep | Soil 8" Deep | Compost Activity | Time to Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 38°F | 44°F | ❄️ Dormant | ~36 weeks |
| Feb | 40°F | 43°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Mar | 48°F | 48°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
| Apr | 58°F | 55°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| May | 67°F | 64°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jun | 79°F | 74°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Jul | 87°F | 81°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Aug | 85°F | 83°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Sep | 80°F | 79°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Oct | 69°F | 72°F | 🔥 Peak | ~8 weeks |
| Nov | 57°F | 62°F | ♻️ Active | ~14 weeks |
| Dec | 45°F | 51°F | 🐢 Slow | ~24 weeks |
Highlighted rows = soil 60°F+ (safe for warm-season transplants). Compost finishes fastest during peak activity months.
Pest & Disease Pressure in Mc Lean
Computed from local climate patterns — warmer, humid conditions increase pest generations and fungal disease risk.
Quick context: Pest and disease pressure is the X-factor most beginners under-plan for. Mc Lean's climate determines whether you can mostly "plant and see" or whether you need a pest-management routine from the first seedling.
Insect Pest Pressure
Moderate — common pests appear but manageable with monitoring.
Disease Risk
High fungal/bacterial risk. Space plants for airflow, water at soil level.
Seasonal Risk
View 6 common pests in your area
| Pest | Risk Level | Peak Months |
|---|---|---|
| Aphids | High | Mar, Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct |
| Japanese beetles | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug |
| Squash vine borers | High | May, Jun, Jul |
| Stink bugs | Moderate | May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Whiteflies | Moderate | Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep |
| Spider mites | Moderate | Jul, Aug |
Organic pest management tips
- Use row covers on susceptible crops during peak pest months
- Apply neem oil preventatively every 7-14 days during active pest season
- Interplant with strong-scented herbs (basil, marigold) to confuse pests
- Hand-pick larger pests (beetles, caterpillars) in early morning when they're sluggish
- Practice crop rotation — never plant the same family in the same spot within 3 years
- Watch for powdery mildew, downy mildew, blight — common in your climate
Cover Crops for Mc Lean
Cover crops protect bare soil, fix nitrogen, suppress weeds, and improve soil structure — with planting dates calibrated for your area.
Why this matters: Bare soil is wasted soil — it loses nutrients to rain, dries out, compacts, and gets taken over by weeds. Cover crops (clovers, ryegrass, vetch, peas) are the "between seasons" trick that makes soil better every year. In Mc Lean, you can fit a cover crop into the gaps.
Spring Cover Crops (4 options) — Build soil before the main growing season
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Buckwheat | Apr 13 | Sep 8 | — | Rapid growth, attracts pollinators, suppresses weeds |
| Cowpeas (southern peas) | Apr 13 | Aug 25 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer for warm climates, edible |
| Sorghum-sudan grass | Apr 13 | Sep 1 | — | Massive biomass, breaks compaction, suppresses nematodes |
| White clover | Mar 10 | Aug 25 | ✓ Yes | Living mulch, fixes nitrogen, permanent ground cover |
Summer Cover Crops (1 options) — Fill gaps and suppress weeds between plantings
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sunflowers | Apr 30 | Oct 13 | — | Deep roots break compaction, attract pollinators and beneficial insects |
Fall Cover Crops (7 options) — Plant after harvest to protect soil over winter
| Crop | Plant By | Terminate | N-Fixing | Soil Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Austrian winter peas | Aug 28 | Mar 16 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, good for heavy clay soils |
| Crimson clover | Aug 25 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Fixes nitrogen, attracts pollinators in spring |
| Daikon radish | Sep 16 | Mar 23 | — | Deep taproot breaks compaction, excellent for clay soils |
| Hairy vetch | Aug 24 | Mar 23 | ✓ Yes | Excellent nitrogen fixer, good for depleted soils |
| Oats | Sep 24 | Mar 16 | — | Quick biomass, winterkills in cold zones — no spring tillage needed |
| Winter rye | Aug 12 | Mar 16 | — | Suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, breaks up compacted soil |
| Winter wheat | Aug 5 | Mar 23 | — | Erosion control, weed suppression, good biomass |
Wind & Microclimate in Mc Lean
For new gardeners: Wind shapes the garden you don't think about: bee paths, evaporation, structural stress on tomato cages. Mc Lean's 7.7 mph background level is a baseline you should know before placing the tallest crops (sunflowers, pole beans, sweet corn).
Wind dries soil, stresses plants, and affects frost patterns. Understanding your exposure helps with garden placement.
Seasonal Wind Speed
Spring: 11 mph Summer: 7 mph
Fall: 9 mph Winter: 10 mph
Prevailing wind: SW. Moderate wind — consider a temporary windbreak for young seedlings.
Windbreak Benefit
5.5/10
Moderately beneficial — a simple fence or trellis can protect delicate crops from wind stress.
Frost Pocket Risk
Low
Relatively flat terrain (299 ft range). Frost pocket risk is minimal — garden placement is flexible.
Rainwater Harvesting in Mc Lean
How much water you can collect, when to collect it, and what size system you need for your garden.
Why this matters: A single rain barrel under a downspout catches 50 gallons in a 0.5" storm. Mc Lean's 45" annual rainfall means even modest harvesting systems quickly amortize their cost in water savings.
Annual Collection
26,415 gal
Per 1,000 sq ft of roof area (at 80% collection efficiency)
Recommended Setup
6 rain barrels (55 gal each)
For a typical 500 sq ft garden. Serious collectors: consider a 250 gal tank.
Legal Status
Unrestricted
Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state with no restrictions.
Best Collection Months
Feb, Mar, Jun, Jul
Highest rainfall months — your barrels will fill up quickly during these months.
Months to Draw From Storage
May, Sep, Oct
Dry months when you'll rely on stored water — size your storage for this gap.
Rainwater collection tips for your area
- Your county receives approximately 53.0 inches of rain per year
- A 1,000 sq ft roof can collect roughly 26,415 gallons annually
- Rainwater harvesting is fully legal in your state
- Your area gets ample rainfall — even small barrels make a big difference
- Consider a rain garden to handle overflow during heavy rainfall months
🥬 Vegetables to Grow in Mc Lean
112 vegetables matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Mc Lean.
Show all 112 vegetables with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Acorn Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Amaranth | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Artichoke | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Arugula | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 30–50 |
| Asparagus | — | — | Apr 20 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Beets | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Belgian Endive | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jul 27 – Sep 21 | 110–150 |
| Bitter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Black Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 31 | 90–120 |
| Bok Choy | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Broccoli | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Broccoli Rabe | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Brussels Sprouts | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 90–130 |
| Butternut Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 85–110 |
| Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 60–100 |
| Calabash | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Cardoon | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Oct 5 | 120–150 |
| Carrots | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 25 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 60–80 |
| Cauliflower | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 55–100 |
| Celeriac | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jul 20 – Aug 24 | 100–120 |
| Celery | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 80–120 |
| Celtuce | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–90 |
| Chard | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Jul 20 | 50–60 |
| Chayote | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Chickpeas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Chicory | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 8 – Jul 20 | 60–85 |
| Chinese Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Christmas Lima Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Collard Greens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 55–75 |
| Corn | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 60–100 |
| Cowpeas | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Cress | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Apr 20 – May 11 | 14–21 |
| Crookneck Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Crosne | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 25 | Aug 24 – Oct 26 | 150–200 |
| Cucumber | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Daikon | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 50–70 |
| Delicata Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 80–100 |
| Edamame | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 75–100 |
| Eggplant | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 31 | 65–85 |
| Endive | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 45–65 |
| Escarole | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Fava Beans | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 75–100 |
| Fennel | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 60–90 |
| Garlic | — | — | — | Sep 22 | Dec 22 – May 4 | 90–240 |
| Green Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Horseradish | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Hot Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Hubbard Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 3 – Sep 7 | 100–120 |
| Jicama | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 24 – Nov 2 | 120–180 |
| Kabocha | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 85–100 |
| Kai Lan | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 25 – Jun 22 | 45–60 |
| Kale | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–70 |
| Kidney Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 13 – Aug 17 | 85–110 |
| Kohlrabi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 25 – Jun 29 | 45–65 |
| Komatsuna | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 35–50 |
| Leeks | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jul 6 – Sep 21 | 90–150 |
| Lentils | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 29 – Aug 10 | 80–110 |
| Lettuce | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jul 20 | 30–60 |
| Lima Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Loofah | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 5 | 100–150 |
| Luffa | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Oct 5 | 90–150 |
| Mache | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Malabar Spinach | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Melon | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 70–100 |
| Microgreens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Apr 13 – May 11 | 7–21 |
| Mitsuba | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | May 25 – Jul 20 | 50–70 |
| Mizuna | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jun 8 | 30–45 |
| Mustard Greens | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 30–50 |
| Napa Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 55–75 |
| New Zealand Spinach | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 13 | 55–70 |
| Okra | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–65 |
| Onion | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Pac Choi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 15 | 40–55 |
| Parsnip | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 25 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 100–130 |
| Patty Pan Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 45–60 |
| Peas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 55–70 |
| Peppers | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–90 |
| Pole Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Sep 7 | 70–120 |
| Pumpkin | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 85–120 |
| Purslane | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Radicchio | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 8 – Jul 13 | 60–80 |
| Radish | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 25 | Apr 20 – May 11 | 22–35 |
| Rhubarb | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Romanesco | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 22 – Aug 3 | 75–100 |
| Rutabaga | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 25 | Jun 15 – Jul 20 | 80–100 |
| Salsify | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 25 | Jul 6 – Aug 17 | 100–130 |
| Savoy Cabbage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 70–110 |
| Scallions | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Jun 29 | 50–70 |
| Scarlet Runner Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Jul 27 | 60–80 |
| Shallot | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jul 6 – Aug 24 | 90–120 |
| Shiso | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 50–70 |
| Snap Peas | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 10 | 55–70 |
| Snow Peas | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Jul 27 | 50–65 |
| Soybeans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 80–120 |
| Spaghetti Squash | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 17 | 85–100 |
| Spinach | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 35–50 |
| Squash (Summer) | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 10 | 45–65 |
| Squash (Winter) | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 7 | 80–120 |
| Sunchoke | — | — | Apr 20 | — | Aug 10 – Oct 5 | 110–150 |
| Sweet Corn | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 60–90 |
| Sweet Potatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Tatsoi | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jun 15 | 35–50 |
| Tomatillo | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–85 |
| Tomatoes | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 31 | 60–85 |
| Turnip | — | Mar 23 | — | Aug 25 | May 4 – Jun 8 | 40–60 |
| Watercress | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Apr 6 | Aug 25 | May 18 – Jun 22 | 40–60 |
| Watermelon | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 17 | 70–100 |
| Wax Beans | — | Apr 13 | — | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–65 |
| Winter Melon | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jul 20 – Sep 7 | 90–120 |
| Yard Long Beans | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Jul 27 | 55–80 |
| Zucchini | Mar 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
🍓 Fruits to Grow in Mc Lean
31 fruits matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Mc Lean.
Show all 31 fruits with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpine Strawberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Nov 9 | 90–180 |
| Aronia | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Blackberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Blueberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Boysenberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Cantaloupe | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 10 | 70–90 |
| Che Fruit | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Cranberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Currants | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Elderberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Figs | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Goji Berries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Gooseberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Grapes | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Ground Cherry | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 6 – Aug 31 | 65–80 |
| Hardy Kiwi | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Haskaps | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Honeydew | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 20 – Aug 31 | 80–110 |
| Jostaberry | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Kiwi | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Lingonberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Loquat | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Medlar | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Mulberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1825 |
| Pawpaw | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Persimmon | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–2555 |
| Pomegranate | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Quince | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 1095–1825 |
| Raspberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 365–730 |
| Serviceberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | — | 730–1095 |
| Strawberries | — | — | Apr 27 | — | Jul 27 – Dec 7 | 90–365 |
🌿 Herbs to Grow in Mc Lean
36 herbs matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Mc Lean.
Show all 36 herbs with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Harvest | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angelica | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | — | 365–730 |
| Anise | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | Jun 29 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Basil | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 50–75 |
| Bee Balm | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Borage | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | May 25 – Jul 13 | 50–60 |
| Caraway | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | — | 365–450 |
| Catnip | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 60–80 |
| Chamomile | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Chervil | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Chives | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Cilantro | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Comfrey | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Cumin | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | Jul 13 – Sep 14 | 100–120 |
| Dill | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Epazote | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 45–60 |
| Fennel (herb) | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Feverfew | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 13 – Sep 28 | 90–120 |
| Garlic Chives | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Horehound | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 75–90 |
| Hyssop | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Lemon Balm | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 3 | 60–70 |
| Lemon Thyme | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Lovage | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Marjoram | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Mint | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Oregano | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Parsley | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | Jun 1 – Aug 3 | 60–80 |
| Rosemary | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jul 6 – Nov 23 | 80–180 |
| Rue | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Sage | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Aug 24 | 75–90 |
| Savory | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Aug 3 | 50–70 |
| Sorrel | Mar 2 | Mar 23 | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | May 11 – Jul 13 | 40–60 |
| Tarragon | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 24 | 60–90 |
| Thai Basil | Feb 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 20 | — | Jun 15 – Aug 17 | 50–75 |
| Thyme | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 24 | 70–90 |
| Valerian | — | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 17 – Nov 23 | 120–180 |
🌸 Flowers to Grow in Mc Lean
53 flowers matched to Zone 7b with planting dates calibrated for Mc Lean.
Show all 53 flowers with dates
| Plant | Start Indoors | Direct Sow | Transplant | Fall Plant | Bloom | Days to Maturity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ageratum | Feb 23 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 5 | 60–75 |
| Alliums | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Oct 27 – Nov 17 | 28–42 |
| Anemones | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Sep 22 – Oct 20 | 90–120 |
| Astilbe | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Aug 17 | 70–100 |
| Bachelor's Button | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Sep 8 | Jun 8 – Sep 14 | 60–90 |
| Begonias | Jan 26 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Black-eyed Susan | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Bleeding Hearts | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–90 |
| Calendula | Feb 23 | Mar 2 | Apr 6 | Sep 8 | May 25 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| California Poppy | — | Mar 9 | — | Sep 8 | May 18 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Celosia | Mar 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 19 | 60–90 |
| Columbine | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 70–100 |
| Coreopsis | Feb 2 | Apr 6 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–80 |
| Cosmos | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Mar 30 | — | Jun 8 – Oct 12 | 60–90 |
| Crocus | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Aug 25 – Sep 15 | 10–20 |
| Daffodils | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Sep 1 – Sep 22 | 20–40 |
| Dahlias | Mar 16 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Nov 9 | 70–120 |
| Daylily | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Dianthus | Feb 9 | Mar 2 | Mar 9 | — | Apr 27 – Jul 20 | 60–80 |
| Echinacea (Purple Coneflower) | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 29 – Nov 2 | 70–90 |
| Foxglove | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 80–120 |
| Gaillardia (Blanket Flower) | Feb 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 16 | 70–100 |
| Geraniums | Jan 26 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Gladiolus | — | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 70–100 |
| Hostas | Jan 26 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Hyacinths | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Sep 22 – Oct 13 | 14–28 |
| Hydrangeas | Jan 26 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 12 | 90–150 |
| Impatiens | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 60–75 |
| Irises | — | Division | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 60–100 |
| Larkspur | — | Mar 9 | — | Aug 25 | May 18 – Aug 10 | 60–90 |
| Lavender | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 14 | 90–120 |
| Lilies | — | Division | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 5 | 70–120 |
| Lobelia | Feb 2 | — | Mar 9 | — | May 4 – Jul 13 | 70–80 |
| Lupine | Feb 9 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 1 – Jul 6 | 75–100 |
| Marigolds | Feb 23 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Sep 21 | 50–70 |
| Nasturtium | Mar 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 1 – Oct 19 | 55–65 |
| Pansy | Jan 26 | — | Mar 30 | Aug 25 | May 25 – Aug 17 | 70–90 |
| Peonies | — | Division | Apr 13 | — | Jun 8 – Jul 6 | 90–120 |
| Petunia | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 12 | 70–90 |
| Phlox | Feb 2 | Apr 13 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 22 – Sep 14 | 80–110 |
| Portulaca | Mar 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | May 25 – Oct 5 | 50–70 |
| Ranunculus | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Sep 29 – Oct 27 | 90–120 |
| Roses | Jan 26 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 26 | 90–180 |
| Salvia | Feb 9 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Sedum (Stonecrop) | Feb 2 | — | Apr 13 | — | Aug 3 – Oct 26 | 60–90 |
| Snapdragon | Jan 26 | Mar 9 | Mar 30 | Sep 8 | Jun 8 – Sep 14 | 70–100 |
| Sunflower | Mar 16 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 29 – Oct 19 | 70–100 |
| Sweet Alyssum | Feb 23 | Mar 9 | Apr 6 | Sep 22 | May 18 – Aug 24 | 45–60 |
| Sweet Pea | — | — | — | Sep 8 | Nov 17 – Feb 9 | 65–85 |
| Tulips | — | — | — | Sep 29 | Sep 15 – Oct 6 | 15–30 |
| Vinca (Annual) | Jan 26 | — | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 70–90 |
| Yarrow | Feb 2 | Mar 30 | Apr 13 | — | Jun 15 – Nov 2 | 60–90 |
| Zinnia | Mar 9 | Apr 6 | Apr 6 | — | Jun 15 – Oct 19 | 60–70 |
Monthly Planting Guide for Mc Lean
ZIP Codes in Mc Lean
Click any ZIP to see its specific frost, soil, and climate measurements (some ZIPs differ noticeably from the town aggregate):